The Greenville City Council met on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Council Chambers. Mayor Pro Tem Tonya Foreman presided with Mayor P.J. Connelly absent. All six present council members (Foreman, Robinson, Hardee, Jones, Willis, Scully) voted unanimously on all consent items and routine actions. The meeting featured a presentation of the Fiscal Year 2026‑2027 proposed budget, a legal analysis of Philadelphia ICE policies and their applicability in North Carolina, and recognitions of staff and graduates.
Chief Financial Officer Jacob Joyner presented the proposed city operating budget of $195 million, with the general fund at $124 million. Key proposals:
Council members expressed support, noting the budget invests in employees, infrastructure, and quality of life while keeping the tax rate flat. Several highlighted the importance of smart growth to expand the tax base.
Joyner presented a mid‑year budget amendment to the general fund and special revenue grant fund:
Assistant City Attorney Scott Dixon reviewed Philadelphia’s recently enacted ICE Out legislative package (adopted January 2026, signed by mayor except a mask ban ruled unconstitutional), including barring ICE from city property and limiting cooperation. He contrasted Pennsylvania’s home‑rule structure with North Carolina’s Dillon’s Rule and cited NC General Statute §168‑205.2, which prohibits cities from adopting policies that limit enforcement of federal immigration laws. He concluded that Greenville cannot mirror Philadelphia’s model because state law preempts such local actions. Council members discussed the legal constraints, the role of county vs. city responsibilities, and the importance of educating the public to reduce fear. No vote was taken; the presentation was informational.
I would like to call to order the May 11, 2026 meeting of the Greenville City Council. I am Mayor Pro Tempton Foreman and will be presiding over tonight's meeting. Councilmember Hardy will provide the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Let us pray. Heavenly Father, thank you for bringing us here today. We ask for your guidance, wisdom, and unity as we begin this meeting. Help us to listen with open minds, speak with honesty, and work together with purpose and respect. We also take a moment to celebrate the accomplishments of those graduating from East Carolina University. We thank you for your for their hard work, perseverance, and the support of their families, friends, professors, and mentors who helped them reach this milestone. As they begin their new chapters in life, grant them confidence, integrity, and the courage to lead and serve others well. Bless this meeting and everybody here present today. May our decisions reflect wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to making a positive difference in our community. Amen. Amen. Yes, ma'am. Mayor Connolly has let us know he will not be attending this evening. Mayor for Tempan. Here. Councilmember Jones. Here. Councilmember Hardy. Here. Councilmember Stully. Here. Councilmember Robinson. Here. Councilmember Willis. Here. Thank you. We will move on to the approval of the agenda. Mr. Manager, are there any recommended changes? I have no changes. Mayor Parkin. Motion approved. Second. Motion made by Councilmember Hardy. Second by Councilmember Robison. All those in favor say aye. Aye. All those opposed. Motion passes. Six zero. Now on to our public comment period. The public comment period is a period reserved for comments by the public. Oh, special recognition. Okay. Thank you. I was going to skip it. All right.